Ronald McDonald House in Loma Linda boosts capacity with $12 million expansion

Dozens of families will be able to stay closer to their hospitalized children at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital thanks to a recent $12 million expansion to the Ronald McDonald House in Loma Linda.

The renovation project — the Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House — was unveiled Dec. 11 and includes a 45,000 square foot expansion, adding an additional 33 new guest suites to the house built in 1996, tripling in size to meet the growing needs of more than 1,000 families served through the Ronald McDonald House charities program each year from areas including Riverside, San Bernardino, Coachella Valley and beyond, according to a news release.

The program often operates at 125% occupancy, working to place families at local hotels and covering those costs until a room becomes available. In 2013, more than 800 families were referred to hotels, the release said.

With the new upgrades supported through funding from groups such as the LA Kings, Ontario Reign, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and McDonald’s Operators of Southern California, families could expect to see brand new furniture, kitchens, laundry rooms, among other amenities that will provide a home away from home.

“When a parent hears their child is critically-ill and in need of medical attention, nothing matters more than being close by when they need you most,” said Jay Brand, board chair, Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House, in the release.

“These major lead gifts from the San Manuel Mission Band of Indians, McDonald’s Operators of Southern California and the Los Angeles Kings and Ontario Reign will help ensure we can strengthen even more families during an unimaginable time.”

Families are expected to stay in the new house by Christmas.

To learn more about the new Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House or to donate, visit http://rmhcsc.org/inlandempire.